Quick Summary
- Multiple gunshots erupted at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner held at the Washington Hilton on Saturday evening
- President Trump and Vice President JD Vance underwent emergency evacuation and sustained no injuries
- One Secret Service agent sustained gunshot wounds but protective vest prevented serious injury
- Authorities arrested Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California, who stated his intention to target Trump administration officials
- Event organizers cancelled the dinner, with Trump announcing plans to reschedule within the next month
Multiple gunshots rang out at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington DC on Saturday evening. Secret Service agents immediately escorted President Donald Trump away from the venue.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:35pm ET at the Washington Hilton. The gunfire originated from a security checkpoint area in the lobby, away from the ballroom hosting the dinner attendees.
President Trump had been sitting at the head table alongside First Lady Melania Trump when Secret Service personnel rushed into the room. Within 120 seconds, the banquet table stood completely vacant.
Vice President JD Vance attended the same event and received safe evacuation. Additional high-ranking officials including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio departed through emergency exit routes under security escort.
A Secret Service agent suffered gunshot wounds at point-blank range. His ballistic vest absorbed the impact, and medical personnel expect a complete recovery.
Authorities Identify Shooter
Law enforcement identified the shooter as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, a resident of Torrance, California. Secret Service personnel restrained him at the location. CBS News reports he informed investigators his targets included Trump administration officials.
Allen carried several firearms, Trump stated. Federal Bureau of Investigation agents alongside local police conducted a search at a Torrance, California residence. Prosecutors plan to file formal charges in court on Monday.
CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer had stepped out of the ballroom and found himself in the lobby during the shooting. A law enforcement officer forced him to the floor and relocated him to a protected area. Blitzer reported observing officers as they subdued the armed individual.
Approximately 2,600 people attended the dinner. Numerous guests sought cover beneath tables when gunfire erupted. National Guard members and additional law enforcement personnel surrounded the hotel exterior while helicopters maintained aerial surveillance.
President Speaks to Media Following Security Incident
President Trump conducted an unscheduled press briefing in the James Brady Press Room at the White House around 10:30pm. Still dressed in formal evening attire, he appeared alongside FBI Director Kash Patel and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
Trump described first believing he heard the sound of falling dishes before recognizing the gunfire. He commended the Secret Service for their rapid protective action.
Via Truth Social, Trump shared his suggestion that the dinner proceed but deferred to law enforcement recommendations. Organizers ultimately decided to cancel the gathering.
Trump announced plans for a rescheduled dinner within the following 30 days. White House Correspondents’ Association president Weijia Jiang verified all attendees remained unharmed and confirmed rescheduling plans.
The Washington Hilton previously served as the location where President Ronald Reagan survived an assassination attempt in 1981.
